How to Clean Bi Fold Doors: A Step-by-Step Guide

Bi fold doors are a favourite among Perth homeowners for good reason. They flood your home with natural light, open up indoor-outdoor living, and add a sleek, modern finish to any space. But to keep them working beautifully, they need a little regular care.

This guide will walk you through how to clean bi fold doors the right way, helping them stay smooth, sparkling, and built to last.

Why It’s Worth the Effort

Clean bi fold doors don’t just improve the look of your home. Regular care helps:

• Maintain clear, streak-free glass
  
• Prevent dirt and grit from jamming tracks
  
• Extend the life of aluminium frames and seals
  
• Reduce the risk of corrosion, especially in coastal areas

If you’ve invested in quality aluminium bi fold doors, it’s well worth the time to keep them in top shape.

Supply List: What You’ll Need

Gather a few simple tools before you begin:

• Bucket with warm water
  
• Mild detergent or sugar soap
  
• Soft sponge or non-abrasive cloth
  
• Microfibre cloths or squeegee
  
• Vacuum with a brush nozzle
  
• Silicone spray or WD-40
  
• Glass cleaner (optional)
  

Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers that can damage the finish or scratch the glass.

Step 1: Clear Away Loose Dirt

Start by vacuuming around the door frames and inside the bottom tracks. Use a brush nozzle to gently lift out dirt, dust, and pet hair. This step prevents grit from scratching your bi fold doors during washing.

Step 2: Wash the Frames

Mix warm water with a little mild detergent or sugar soap. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution and gently wipe down the aluminium frames and panels. Start at the top and work down to avoid dirty drips on clean areas.

If your doors are near a shaded spot, check for mould or mildew around the seals. A soft brush can help lift any stubborn buildup.

Step 3: Clean the Glass

Use your soapy water mix or a dedicated window cleaner to wipe the glass panels. A squeegee or microfibre cloth works best for a streak-free finish.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

If your bi fold doors open to the outside, rinse them with a gentle hose spray to wash away residue. Indoors, use a clean damp cloth to rinse. Dry everything thoroughly with a microfibre cloth to avoid water spots.

Step 5: Lubricate Tracks and Hinges

Open and close the doors to check how smoothly they move. Apply a light spray of silicone lubricant or WD-40 to the hinges and sliding tracks. Wipe away any excess so it doesn’t attract dust.

Avoid grease or oil-based sprays, which can gum up over time.

Step 6: Test for Smooth Movement

Slide and fold the panels again. If anything feels stiff or catches, inspect the hinges and tracks for remaining dirt. Add a little more lubricant if needed.

For bigger issues like alignment or worn seals, contact our bi fold door specialists for expert advice. 

How Often Should You Clean Bi Fold Doors?

Keeping a regular cleaning schedule will help your doors stay smooth and clear:

• Every 3 to 6 months for standard cleaning
  
• Every 1 to 2 months for high-traffic areas
  
• Monthly rinsing and hinge checks if you live near the coast
  

A few minutes of care can save you costly repairs down the line.

When to Call a Professional

If you notice any of the following, it’s time to bring in a pro:

• Cloudy or fogged-up glass
  
• Cracked or loose seals
  
• Dragging or misaligned panels
  
• Rust or corrosion on hardware

If your doors need to be repalced, the team at By GOBO can help you find a stylish, durable solution that suits your space.

Keep Your Bi Fold Doors Looking and Working Like New

With a little care and the right approach, cleaning your bi fold doors can be quick and rewarding. You’ll protect your investment, improve day-to-day functionality, and keep your home looking polished year-round.

For more ideas, visit our bi fold doors gallery and see how other Perth homeowners are making the most of their spaces.

Contact us
Contact us  Get a free quote! Get a free quote!